It's understood that the process to make Fati a Spanish national took around three months, according to the Guardian's Sid Lowe. Fati's eligibility was reportedly approved just in time for him to be named to head coach David Gordo's list of players available for the Under-17 World Cup in Brazil next month.

Given Fati's successful start to the season, he's expected to make the final cut when Gordo trims the team down to 23 players, Lowe adds.

News of his eligibility will likely be met with mixed feelings in the Catalan capital. With the Under-17 World Cup running from Oct. 26 to Nov. 17, Barcelona could be without Fati for almost a month, depending on Spain's performances.

The 16-year-old recently made headlines after becoming the second-youngest player to suit up for Barcelona earlier this season before becoming the youngest to ever record a goal for the defending La Liga champions. He also became the club's youngest debutant in the Champions League this week.

The forward, who was born in Guinea-Bissau but emigrated to Spain at the age of six, was also eligible to play for Portugal.